Onlay Restorations

An onlay restoration is a custom made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. An onlay is sometimes also referred to as a partial crown. It is made by a professional dental laboratory and is permanently cemented onto the tooth by your dentist.

Onlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. Onlays are an ideal alternative to crowns (caps) because less tooth structure is removed in the preparation of onlays. Onlays are essentially identical to inlays with the exception that one or more of the chewing cusps have also been affected and need to be included in the restoration.

As with most dental restorations, onlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement. They are highly durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Reasons for onlay restorations:

Broken or fractured teeth.

Cosmetic enhancement.

Decayed teeth.

Fractured fillings.

Large fillings.

What does getting an onlay involve?

An onlay procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom onlay and a temporary restoration.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will remove any decay and/or old filling materials. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an onlay restoration. A temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth while your onlay is made by a dental laboratory.

At your second appointment, your new onlay will be carefully and precisely cemented into place. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and that your bite is comfortable.

You will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new onlay.

Testimonials

MY FIRST ROOT CANAL EEPS!!!!

How come i can only leave 5 stars - i want to leave more!!!! I've been going to Doctor Tarantino for awhile now, the usual - fillings, cleanings....even had to pull a tooth (never had that before eeekkkk) and replace a bridge (double eeeekkkk). There has never, ever been any pain...nothing!!! Well, today was my first root canal - OMG i heard him say those words and i thought i'd throw up right in his chair!!! I mustered all my strength and confidence today and silently said a rosary...watching the time as the hours ticked down...closer and closer to my appointment. *huge sigh*...ok it's time - I go in. The "girls" are so kind and sweet and know how scared I am...I'm one of those "white knuckle patients"....oh God they called my name down the hallway I went....I felt like my kitty must feel when she goes to the vet (laughs). Dr. Tarantino came into the exam room and explains the procedure that he's going to do i hear blah, click, blah, click and blah. My heart is pounding out of my chest... ok we're ready to start. *gulp* I'm not sure how much time went by but then I heard Dr. Tarantino say - OK Jules, we're done...i said ummm done? like finished? I must have dozed off in the chair (laughs). He is so amazing and so kind and honorable. The office staff makes you feel like you're family and so does Dr. Tarantino. Everything is done for the patient's comfort. While I was all numbed up he also filled 4 cavities. This doctor is beyond awesome. He talked me through the whole procedure telling me every step of the way what was happening, what I would feel...which totally put me at ease. I would never go to another dentist!!!! He is the best!!!!
- Julia S. 4/16/2018